AI / Claude Models Basics Interview Questions
What is Claude's approach to harmful content — what will and won't it do?
Claude has hardcoded behaviours (absolute limits that cannot be changed by any instruction) and softcoded defaults (behaviours that operators or users can adjust within permitted ranges). Understanding this distinction helps developers build applications that work well within Claude's guidelines.
| Type | Examples | Can it be changed? |
|---|---|---|
| Hardcoded OFF (never does) | Generate CSAM; provide serious uplift for WMD creation; undermine AI oversight | No — never, regardless of any instruction |
| Hardcoded ON (always does) | Tell users what it cannot help with; provide basic safety info in life-threatening situations; acknowledge being an AI when sincerely asked | No — always, regardless of operator restrictions |
| Default ON (operators can turn off) | Safe messaging guidelines for sensitive topics; safety caveats on dangerous activities | Yes — operators can disable for appropriate platforms (e.g. medical providers) |
| Default OFF (operators can turn on) | Explicit adult content; very detailed information about certain regulated activities | Yes — operators can enable for appropriate platforms (e.g. adult content platforms) |
Claude's 'instructable' behaviours follow a layered permission system: Anthropic sets the outer boundaries; operators adjust within those limits for their platform; users can further adjust within what operators allow. Claude tries to use good judgement to serve the legitimate interests of everyone in this chain.
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